1976 Gibson Les Paul Black Beauty – Vintage Custom Model

Serial Number: 00117699 (sticker serial number, name on back of headstock)
Made in USA

Overview:

For sale is a 1976 Gibson Les Paul Black Beauty, an iconic and highly sought-after vintage guitar. This model exemplifies the craftsmanship of Gibson’s mid-'70s Custom Shop, featuring a stunning glossy ebony finish with gold hardware and a mahogany body for that legendary sustain and warm tone.

This particular Les Paul Custom retains its original factory specifications, making it a true collector’s piece. The sticker-style serial number and Gibson name on the back of the headstock confirm its authenticity as a 1976 model.

Features & Specifications:

• Body: Solid mahogany with a carved maple top (classic Les Paul Custom tonewood combo)
• Neck: 3-piece maple with a comfortable "C" profile
• Fretboard: Ebony with Mother-of-Pearl block inlays
• Frets: Original medium-jumbo frets, recently polished, with plenty of life left
• Binding: Multi-ply cream binding on the body and headstock, single-ply on the neck
• Pickups: Original T-Top humbuckers (date-stamped from the era, producing a warm and articulate tone)
• Electronics: 2 Volume, 2 Tone, 3-way pickup selector (pots and wiring appear original)
• Bridge: Original Tune-O-Matic bridge
• Tailpiece: Replaced tailpiece, all other hardware is original
• Tuners: Gibson-branded gold Grover Rotomatic tuners (functioning smoothly)
• Hardware: Original gold-plated hardware with natural vintage patina
• Weight: Approximately 10.5 lbs (typical for mid-'70s Les Paul Customs)
• Case: Includes original Gibson chainsaw-style hard shell case (black tolex with plush lining)

Condition:

This guitar is in excellent vintage condition with normal playwear for a nearly 50-year-old instrument. There are minor dings and light surface scratches, primarily on the back, but nothing that affects playability or structure. The gold hardware has developed a natural patina, adding to the vintage character. The frets are in great shape with minimal wear, and the neck is straight with low action. From a nonsmoking studio facility, never has been on the road. Sold “as-is“, has not been played in 20 years.

Sound & Playability:

This Les Paul Custom is a tone monster, delivering rich, warm lows, articulate mids, and creamy highs—perfect for everything from jazz and blues to hard rock. The original T-Top humbuckers provide that vintage PAF-style bite with fantastic sustain.

Why Buy This Guitar?

• 100% original vintage 1976 Gibson Les Paul Custom (except for the tailpiece)
• Rare sticker serial number with Gibson name on back of headstock (collectible feature)
• Classic Black Beauty aesthetics with original gold hardware
• Well-maintained, fully functional, and ready to play

Price & Shipping:

Priced at $8750 (reasonable offers considered). Will be carefully packed and shipped with full insurance.

Don’t miss out on owning a true 1976 Gibson Les Paul Black Beauty—an absolute classic that will only appreciate in value!